Child Protection & Family Services

In this program, family service specialists receive and assess reports for child abuse and neglect in accordance with state law. Upon completion of the Child Protective Services (CPS) Assessment, cases are staffed with the county Child Protection Team. Services may be required if impending dangers are identified in a family and/or foster care services are needed.

How to File a Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect (SFN 960)

• To make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect, please contact the CPS Intake Unit at 1-833-958-3500; Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You may also complete the SFN 960 Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect and fax to the ND Child Protection Services Intake Unit at (701) 328-0361.

• An intake worker is available at the Buffalo Bridges Human Service Zone office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, if you have any questions regarding filing a report. You may also mail, fax, or drop off a report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect at the Buffalo Bridges Human Service Zone office (information below).

For child protection emergencies after business hours, please contact your local law enforcement agency. For additional information, please see the North Dakota Child Protection Program.

Buffalo Bridges Human Service Zone – Valley City Office
230 4th St. NW Rm 102
Valley City, ND 58072
P-(701) 845-8521
F-(701) 845-8184

Valley City Police Department
216 2nd Ave NE
Valley City, ND 58072
P-(701) 845-3110

Barnes County Sheriff’s Office
230 4th St. NW Rm 105
Valley City, ND 58072
P-(701) 845-8530

In case of an emergency, please call 911.

In-Home Case Management

In cases where children have been determined unsafe but impending danger is able to be controlled through an In Home Safety Plan, a case manager is assigned to assist the family in obtaining the support and services needed to reduce the identified danger and prevent foster care placement.

Foster Care Case Management

Provision of substitute parental care to children under age 21 who are removed from the care, custody, and control of their parents due to abuse/neglect, deprivation or unruly behavior. A court order is required for placement of children in foster care with the exception of emergency, after hours situations when law enforcement can request temporary placement without a court order. Foster care may be provided in a relative home, licensed family foster home, group home, or residential care facility. Case management is provided by agency family service specialists to the child in custody and family to facilitate reunification. When reunification cannot occur, other goals are considered such as guardianship, adoption or planned permanent living for that child.

Parent Aide Services

Paraprofessional services to families, who are actively involved in case management services, that provide education and support to meet predetermined goals and assist in preventing out-of-home placement for children. Services are provided as a component of Family Preservation Services in North Dakota.